Talking Points: should fathers get the same amount of parental leave as mothers?

I think the government should consider giving both fathers and mothers the same amount of parental leave. Then there will be happy families all around.

Definitely! People nowadays emphasise the need for fairness. Both mothers and fathers play equally important roles in their children’s growth. While mothers may be responsible for taking care of their children and housework, fathers can be their kids’ “playmates” and help give them a good education. At the same time, fathers can share the mothers’ workload. 

Also, fathers would not want to miss any amazing moments as their kids grow up. We cannot ignore the importance of both parents promoting the well-being of their children.

I don’t think so. However, fathers should get at least a week of paternity leave. During this period, men can take care of their wives and newborn. After giving birth, a mother will be very weak, while the baby also needs to be well looked after. 

What’s more, fathers get a well-deserved break from their work while learning how to take care of a baby. That’s why I think a week’s paternity leave for fathers will be very helpful.

Both fathers and mothers should get the same amount of  parental leave. This can prevent women suffering from depression after childbirth and ensure a happy married life.

Fathers should not leave their wives alone soon after a baby is born. You might think mothers are adults, so they can take care of themselves. But childbirth can be tough, and if their husbands aren’t around to help them, they could be upset. Mothers might think their husbands don’t care about them.

During parental leave, husbands can help take care of the baby and do household chores. A woman who has had her first baby may not know how to properly take care of the newborn, so her husband can help, making life much easier for her.

Parental leave is essential for both mother and father. A mother could face a lot of physical problems after childbirth so the father has to take care of all her needs. A father should do all the domestic chores and offer spiritual support to his wife during this period. 

Currently, most men take no-pay leave to look after their wives. But if we introduce a new law giving both fathers and mothers the same amount of parental leave, men would be able to fulfil their responsibilities without any fear of losing their jobs. Creating such an environment will also increase the chances of fathers being directly involved in child care in the long run. Then both the mother and father can share the workload and make sure the child grows up in a happy family. This would make Hong Kong a better place to live.

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